Perspectives on play in a changing world

This chapter introduces the notion of play and how children make sense of their world through play. It incorporates definitions of play and raises awareness of the major theorists who have enhanced our understanding of the value and significance of play. Through this introduction, readers can reflect on a play-based curriculum and the role of early educators in facilitating learning and teaching during early childhood. It also examines the diverse contexts of children's play in contemporary societies - including formal early childhood settings and informal settings in the home and community. In raising issues of concern for parents and educators, this chapter discusses the challenges of creating time in which child-centred play can be nurtured as a basic right of every child wherever he or she lives.